New York City Schools Announce Admissions and Application Dates for the 2026–2027 School Year

The New York City Public Schools Office of Student Enrollment has announced the key admissions and application dates for the 2026–2027 school year, covering high school, middle school, kindergarten, 3-K and Pre-K programs, and Gifted & Talented programs.

The Department of Education urged families to track the dates that apply to their children’s ages and grade levels, noting that the announced dates are subject to change and that any updates will be sent directly to families registered on the admissions mailing lists.

High School Admissions

Currently enrolled eighth-grade students, as well as first-time ninth-grade students, are eligible to participate in the application process.

- Application opens: October 6, 2026 - Specialized High Schools registration deadline: October 30, 2026 - High school and LaGuardia application closes: December 4, 2026 - Admission offers released: March 3, 2027

Middle School Admissions

Fifth-grade students are eligible to apply, along with sixth-grade students whose elementary school ends at sixth grade.

- Application opens: October 14, 2026 - Mark Twain I.S. 239 and District 21 talent test registration deadline: November 2, 2026 - Application closes: December 11, 2026 - Admission offers released: April 7, 2027

Kindergarten Admissions

Children born in 2022 are eligible to apply.

- Application opens: December 9, 2026 - Application closes: January 22, 2027 - Admission offers released: March 30, 2027

3-K and Pre-K Programs

Children born in 2023 are eligible to apply for Pre-K, while children born in 2024 are eligible to apply for 3-K.

- Application opens: January 13, 2027 - Application closes: February 26, 2027 - Pre-K offers released: May 11, 2027 - 3-K offers released: May 18, 2027

2-K Program

The 2-K program is for children born in 2025. The Department of Education said application details and dates will be announced soon.

Gifted & Talented Programs

Currently enrolled students from kindergarten through third grade may apply to Gifted & Talented programs for grades 1 through 4. Eligibility is based on the student’s report card grades.

- Application opens: April 19, 2027 - Application closes: May 7, 2027 - Results released: June 10, 2027

Families are encouraged to sign up to receive admissions updates at schools.nyc.gov/SignUp. Virtual information sessions will also be organized during application periods to help families understand the procedures and available options.

Inquiries

- High schools: HSEnrollment@schools.nyc.gov - Middle schools: MSEnrollment@schools.nyc.gov - Kindergarten, Gifted & Talented, Pre-K, 3-K and 2-K: ESEnrollment@schools.nyc.gov

Source: Office of Student Enrollment – New York City Public Schools.

Note: All dates are subject to change. Families are advised to follow the official website and Department of Education communications for the latest information.